Introduction

Chickenpox or varicella is a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

The virus is responsible for chickenpox (usually primary infection in non-immune hosts) and
herpes zoster or shingles (following reactivation of latent infection).

Chickenpox is a worldwide, airborne disease that is spread by coughing and sneezing, and
also by contact with skin lesions.

Etiology

Chickenpox or varicella is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a herpesvirus with

worldwide distribution. It establishes latency after primary infection, a feature unique to most
herpes viruses.